Pique prepared to be patient

Spanish defender Gerard Pique hopes to capitalise on his recent United performances by commanding more regular action in the first-team.

The 20-year-old former Barcelona youngster has played in two of United's last four matches.

Pique was the outstanding Reds player in a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Coventry City, before another fine solid display in the 4-0 win over Wigan, in which he showed he can perform at right-back as well as centre-half.

"I am very pleased [with the way things are going]," he told MUTV's Live from Old Trafford programme. "Since coming back from my loan spell, I just want to stay here and find a place in the team."

Pique was highly impressive on loan with la Liga outfit Real Zaragoza last season, which prompted Sir Alex Ferguson to keep hold of the young defender this year as cover for Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

"At the moment I am not playing a lot, but I feel confident that I can work hard and find my place in the side," he added. "The team is working well at the moment, so it's difficult to command a place every week. But I know I will get the chances and when I do I will give my best for Manchester United."